Pulmonary Function in Convalescent Poliomyelitic Patients

Abstract

BETTER understanding of the respiratory problems encountered, and improved facilities for the treatment of acute poliomyelitis patients with respiratory involvement have apparently decreased the mortality rate in the acute stages of this disease.¹ Reduction of mortality, coupled with the increased incidence of the disease, has resulted in an increasing accumulation of severely crippled patients whose continuation of life depends on respiratory assistance. In April, 1951, there were approximately 500 patients in the United States who required a body respirator or other breathing aid for at least a fraction of each day.² The majority of such patients have been treated singly . . .